Everton have secured three straight victories in the Premier League, pushing them nine points clear of the relegation zone.
The Friedkin Group’s choice to replace Sean Dyche with David Moyes has already proven to be the right move, as Everton are no longer in danger of dropping out of the top flight.
It would now require a significant collapse to threaten their Premier League status, and that seems improbable given Moyes appears to have discovered a winning strategy.
One crucial decision made by Moyes since his arrival has played a major role in this turnaround, and it highlights a misstep by Dyche.
David Moyes exposing Sean Dyche by getting the best out of Jake O’Brien:
Everton spent £17 million to sign Jake O’Brien last summer, but for reasons unclear, Dyche barely utilized him, limiting the defender to brief substitute appearances.
However, since Moyes took over, O’Brien has become a regular starter and a vital part of the team.
O’Brien has lived up to the expectations Everton had when they signed him from Lyon, even while playing out of position at right-back.
Fans have been highly impressed by O’Brien’s performances, with many questioning why Dyche had sidelined him for so long.
This oversight is increasingly looking like one of Dyche’s biggest errors this season.
O’Brien loving Moyes’ methods
O’Brien has been quick to praise Moyes’ approach, and it seems the shift to a more possession-oriented style suits him perfectly.
“It’s been very positive,” the Republic of Ireland international said after Moyes’ first week in charge.
“I think he just wants to start playing more, get a bit more possession. It’s all been positive and there’s not been a whole lot of change because he’s only been here a week, but you can see his ideas in training that he’s trying to implement.”
Pat Nevin has also noted that Everton appear more intimidating with O’Brien in the lineup, as his 6ft 6in stature has made the team more dominant in both defensive and attacking situations.
